The Atlanta Rhythm Section: Where'd Those Funky Cats Go?
The Atlanta Rhythm Section, those purveyors of smooth Southern boogie and stone-cold classics like "So in Love" and "Doraville," were a band built to last. They jammed for decades, but even the funkiest dudes can't escape Father Time, let alone health issues. So, where did the original members go after they hung up their instruments (or, you know, traded them in for rocking chairs)?
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| What Happened To The Members Of Atlanta Rhythm Section |
Buckle Up, Buttercup: A Musical Odyssey with Departures
The Atlanta Rhythm Section wasn't afraid of a good lineup shuffle. Over the years, the band saw more personnel changes than a Broadway musical (though hopefully with less drama). Founding members like bassist Paul Goddard and guitarist J.R. Cobb eventually said goodbye to focus on other projects, while vocalists came and went like a revolving door at a disco.
There were some sadder farewells, too. Singer Ronnie Hammond and keyboardist Dean Daughtry, both core members who helped define the ARS sound, passed away in 2011 and 2023 respectively. Guitarist Barry Bailey, another OG member whose riffs were as smooth as peach cobbler, left us in 2022 after a battle with multiple sclerosis.
The Show Must Go On (Even Without the Original Cast)
Here's the thing: though the band may not have its original lineup, the Atlanta Rhythm Section name still lives on! New musicians have taken the reins, determined to keep the funky flame burning bright. They're touring and playing the hits, ensuring that future generations can get down to "Imaginary Lover" and "Champagne Jam."
Reminder: Take a short break if the post feels long.
So, while we may miss the original crew, it's good to know that the party keeps going. Just think of it as a new chapter in the Atlanta Rhythm Section story – a chapter with, hopefully, way less velcro tracksuits and a lot more skinny jeans (because, let's be honest, the 80s were a rough fashion decade for everyone).
Still Got Questions About ARS? We Got Answers (Kind Of)
How about a little FAQ to tie things up with a disco bow?
How to listen to the Atlanta Rhythm Section's greatest hits?
QuickTip: Revisit posts more than once.
Fire up your favorite streaming service and get funky! There are tons of ARS compilations out there.
How to see the Atlanta Rhythm Section live?
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Check their website or social media for tour dates. Just be prepared for a new generation of musicians – but hey, they'll keep the party going!
Tip: Pause, then continue with fresh focus.
How to grow a mustache as glorious as Ronnie Hammond's?
Honestly, that's some serious facial hair sorcery. Maybe try good genes and a time machine set for the 70s?
How to get those smooth dance moves like the guys in the "Doraville" video?
QuickTip: Reading carefully once is better than rushing twice.
Practice? Confidence? A healthy dose of self-deprecating humor when you inevitably trip over your own two feet?
How to keep the memory of the original Atlanta Rhythm Section alive?
crank up "So in Love" as loud as your neighbors will tolerate, bust out your air guitar, and remember the good times!
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